Hilo
Country: USA · Region: Hawaii · Currency: US Dollar
Hilo is the county seat and largest city in Hawaii County on the Big Island's rainy east side, serving as an excellent starting point to explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and other eastern island attractions. Though small and relaxed with just 44,186 residents, it offers museums, natural wonders, and vibrant local markets.
Top sights
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Rainbow Falls, Pacific Tsunami Museum, Lili'uokalani Gardens, Lyman House Museum, King Kamehameha Statue
Things to do
- Pacific Tsunami Museum
- Located at 130 Kamehameha Ave, this museum serves as a living memorial to Hilo's devastating 1946 and 1960 tsunamis with exhibits on tsunami history and Hawaiian culture.
- Lyman House Museum
- Located at 276 Haili St, features a restored missionary house, local artwork, historical exhibits, and the 9th-best mineral collection in the United States.
- Mokupāpapa Discovery Center
- Located at 76 Kamehameha Ave in a historic century-old building, features a 3,500-gallon saltwater aquarium and exhibits on the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument.
- Lili'uokalani Gardens
- Located at 189 Lihiwai St on Banyan Drive, this authentic Japanese garden built in the early 1900s honors Hawaii's last reigning monarch and Japanese immigrants.
Beaches
- Richardson's Ocean Park
- Located at the end of Highway 19, this popular family spot offers swimming, snorkeling, and occasional waves for surfing.
- Four Mile
- A popular swimming spot on Highway 19 with a sandy bottom protected by a reef, offering brackish water cooler than ocean temperatures.
Where to eat
- Hilo Farmer's Market
- Located at the corner of Kamehameha Avenue and Mamo Street, offers fresh produce, fish, flowers, local jams, and prepared snacks on Wednesday, Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons.
- Hilo Homemade Ice Cream
- Located at 41 Waianuenue Avenue downtown, serves locally-made ice cream known as some of the best on earth.
Getting around
Rent a car at Hilo International Airport for best access to attractions, though downtown Hilo is walkable and the Hele-On Bus system serves the city and airport.
What to eat
Hilo is known for locally-made ice cream available downtown, and the Hilo Farmer's Market offers fresh local produce, fish, and prepared snacks.
Tips
Visit Rainbow Falls early in the day for the best chance to see rainbows created by mist, and arrive at the Farmer's Market early like locals do before items sell out.
Best for
Volcanoes, natural attractions, local culture